High Springs Commission Rejects Bridlewood CDD Petition in Split Vote

HIGH SPRINGS ‒ The High Springs City Commission voted 3-2 on Feb. 13, 2025, to deny a request to establish a Community Development District (CDD) for the proposed Bridlewood development, a 688-acre planned community.

Mayor Tristan Grunder introduced Ordinance 2024-01, which outlined the request for a CDD. The item had previously been tabled at the developer’s request during an earlier commission meeting.

Representing the project, EDA Engineering Vice President Chris Potts described Bridlewood as a mixed-use development featuring 60 acres of open space and up to 2,000 residential units, including both single-family and multi-family homes. Additionally, plans call for up to 200 senior living units and municipal utility services.

Despite the commission’s decision, Potts confirmed that Bridlewood will move forward regardless of whether a CDD is approved.

“A CDD can result in 10 to 15 percent savings on home construction costs because the developer can use tax-exempt bond financing,” Potts said. He added that these savings would be passed to builders, potentially lowering home prices for buyers.

Bridlewood attorney Alyssa Willson addressed concerns raised by commissioners, explaining that CDD fees would be disclosed prominently in closing documents and early in the sales process. The development is planned to include homes at various price points to accommodate a range of income levels.

A Community Development District is an independent special-purpose government entity that finances and maintains community infrastructure. Thousands of CDDs exist across Florida, and while they can levy assessments, they do not exercise general government powers.

In addition to CDD maintenance fees, Bridlewood homeowners would also be required to pay Homeowners Association (HOA) fees. CDD fees would be adjusted annually by the CDD’s governing board based on actual expenses.

Potts noted that local builders would be used for construction, though they would have the freedom to hire subcontractors.

During public comment, Rebecca Burns, a real estate broker, voiced opposition to CDDs, citing her experience with buyers in St. Augustine who actively avoid them.

Resident Brian Bewsher questioned whether any cost savings would actually benefit homebuyers.

Commissioner Chad Howell acknowledged concerns over CDD costs but noted that a CDD could provide financial protection for the City, comparing it to an insurance policy.

Commissioner Katherine Weitz made a motion to deny the Bridlewood CDD petition, with Commissioner Andrew Miller seconding. The motion passed 3-2, with Commissioners Weitz, Miller, and Wayne Bloodsworth, Jr. voting in favor of denial. Commissioner Howell and Mayor Grunder dissented.

With the request denied, Bridlewood’s developers will proceed without the financing structure a CDD would have provided.

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